Bhutan is a landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas between China in the north and India in the south. The region is known for its natural beauty including beautiful valleys, splendid atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. There are various sightseeing places in Bhutan which attract tourists from all over the world. Bhutan is also known as the land of thunder dragon because the lightning strikes are believed to be the fire of a dragon. So, now let’s discuss various facts about Bhutan with AV Holiday World
Now let’s explore 40 fascinating and lesser-known facts about Bhutan:
Bhutan’s Geography and Environment
1.The Only Carbon-Negative Country in the World
One of the interesting Bhutan facts is; that this is the only region in the world which is carbon-negative. It absorbs more carbon dioxide from the environment than it emits.
2.Bhutan’s Forests cover Over 70% of the Country.
Over 70 percent of the area in Bhutan is covered with trees which absorb tonnes of carbon dioxide each year. The government controls the urbanization process and ensures that no development is coming at the expense of forests.
3.GDP of Bhutan is increasing at higher rates:
The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Bhutan is increasing continuously and in 2019, the GDP is estimated to cross 5.18 billion U.S dollar reaching a new peak in 2029.
4.Home to some of the World’s Tallest Unclimbed Mountains.
One of Bhutan's surprising facts is; that the region has some of the world’s tallest unclimbed mountains. The Gangkhar Puensum is the world’s highest unclimbed mountain. The height of this mountain is more than 7500 metres high. There are various reasons why this mountain is unclimbed;
- Spiritual significance: The place is believed to be the home of various deities and spirits.
- Prohibition on climbing: The Bhutan government banned mountain climbing activities due to environmental conservation and respecting mountains.
- Another reason: There is a lack of high-altitude rescue resources in the region.
5.Gross National Happiness is Measured Alongside GDP
In Bhutan, Gross National Happiness is measured alongside GDP because the government uses GNH to make policy and to measure development and progress.
Bhutan’s Unique Government and Policies
6.Bhutan Opened Its Doors to Tourism Only in 1974.
Bhutan's fascinating facts include; that the region opened its doors for tourism in 1974. The government opened the country for foreigners to raise revenue, and promote their culture and traditions. Though the country is open to foreigners the government limits the number of tourists each year to conserve the environment.
7.Smoking is Banned, Making Bhutan a Smoke-Free Country
Bhutan introduced the Tobacco Control Act in 2010, making it a smoking-free country in the region. This law bans the cultivation, sale, supply or manufacture of tobacco. That means an individual cannot even smoke or consume any tobacco products in the region making it a smoke-free country.
8.Television and the Internet Arrived Only in 1999.
The television and internet services arrived in Bhutan in 1999. Before that, the country is isolated from the rest of the world. The royal descendants of Bhutan banned both services to make their country safe from Western influences. But in 1999 the government unbanned both television and internet services at the celebration of the king’s silver jubilee
9.Plastic Bags Were Banned as Early as 1999.
Bhutan announced a nationwide ban on plastics before 1999. The reason to ban plastic bags was because of the growing plastic waste in the country. However, it was difficult to implement since there were no other alternative options available.
10.Bhutanese Citizens Wear Traditional Attire by Law
To preserve Bhutan's traditions and culture, there is a law that all citizens need to wear traditional attire. The official dress code of Bhutan is called Driglam Namzha. The traditional dress code of men is called Gho, and the traditional dress code of women is called Kira. People need to wear traditional dress in public, government offices and schools.
Bhutan’s Rich History and Culture
11. Bhutan Was Never Colonized by Any Foreign Power
Bhutan was never colonized by any foreign power and there are various reasons for this. Firstly, Bhutan is a landlocked country and is surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the world and densely covered forest areas. Secondly, the region is not located at major trade routes of that time and lacks natural resources. Thirdly, the rulers of Bhutan adopted an isolationist policy in the 20th century.
12. Dzongs Serve as Administrative and Religious Centres
Dzongs serve as both administrative and religious centres. These are the fortress-like structures in Bhutan, serving as the region’s national pride and symbolizing Bhutan’s cultural heritage. This is one of Bhutan's unique features, serving as a hub of both social gatherings and community events.
13. Archery is Bhutan’s National Sport
Archery was declared as a national sport of Bhutan in 1971. The bows and arrows were made up of bamboo and reeds. Archery is also one of the popular social activities of Bhutan and organizes competitions. This is one of the unique Bhutan history and culture.
14. The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is one of the World’s Most Iconic Sites.
The Tiger’s Nest monastery is one of the world’s most iconic sites for tourists. This is a sacred Buddhist monastery which symbolizes the cultural and religious significance of Bhutan. This region is also one of the famous pilgrimage sites for tourists. The Bhutan tourism industry will make necessary arrangements including places you will visit.
15. Bhutan Celebrates Gross National Happiness Day Annually
Bhutan's happiness index is one of the best in the world. The region celebrates Gross National Happiness Day annually because its core value is to prioritize the happiness and development of the citizens over economic development.
Bhutan’s Traditions and Beliefs
16. The Bhutanese Practice Vajrayana Buddhism, the Country’s Official Religion.
Vajrayana Buddhism is the country’s official religion. The values and teachings are passed from generation to generation. Also known as tantric Buddhism this works on the principles of the faster path to enlightenment.
17. Giant Phalluses Painted on Walls Are Symbols of Protection
Phalluses painted on walls are symbols of protection in Bhutan. The local people believe that these phalluses are a sign of good luck and keep away evil spirits.
These phalluses are commonly found on the outside walls of new houses.
18.The Traditional Dance Festivals (Tshechus) Showcase Unique Spirituality
Tshechus is the traditional dance of Bhutan, showcasing their unique spirituality. The dancers perform by wearing masks and customs depicting the stories of Bhutanese mythology, history and religion. Bhutan travel guides will make all your necessary arrangements if you want to explore the region's traditions and culture.
19. Highest Number of tourists are Indians:
In 2024, Bhutan witnessed an upsurge in tourism with approximately 25,000 tourists from January to March. While approximately 60% of the tourists are Indians the remaining 40% came from other countries.
20.Marriages Are Often Held Without Formal Ceremonies
The marriage practices include religious rites and local traditions in Bhutan. The lamas and monks perform religious rites during a traditional Bhutanese wedding.
Bhutan’s Lifestyle and Daily Practices
The unique Bhutan lifestyle includes the following;
21. Bhutanese Houses Are Decorated with Colourful Patterns.
The houses in Bhutan are decorated with colourful patterns and symbols. The patterns and colours are chosen to represent specific values inspired by Bhutanese folklore and Buddhist Mythology.
22. The Bhutanese Government Encourages Organic Farming Nationwide.
The Bhutanese government encourages and promotes organic farming nationwide. The policy of Bhutan is deeply concerned about the environment, and by doing organic farming it ensures healthier food.
23. The National Dish, Ema Datshi, Is Made from Chilli and cheese.
The national dish of Bhutan is Ema Datshi made up of chilli and cheese. Since the ingredients are widely available this is the staple food of Bhutan.
24. Bhutanese Time is 30 Minutes Ahead of Indian Standard Time
The time in Bhutan is 30 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time. The region is because of the longitudinal differences.
25. Homestays Are Becoming Popular for Tourists to Experience Authentic Bhutanese Life.
One of the most popular ways to experience authentic Bhutanese life is by staying at homestays. By staying at homestays you can try their traditional cuisine, witness farming practices, experience the weaving art and you can also participate in their local cultures.
Bhutan’s Royal Family and Leadership
Bhutan's monarchy and leadership include the following;
26. Bhutan’s King is known as the “Dragon King.
In Bhutan, the king is known as the Dragon King. Druk Gyalpo in the local language means dragon king and is used to address the king of Bhutan.
27. The Fourth King Gave Up Absolute Power to Establish Democracy
The fourth king of Bhutan Jigme Singye Wangchuck gave up absolute power to establish democracy in Bhutan.
28. Bhutanese Monarchy is revered for its Simplicity and Accessibility.
The monarchy in Bhutan is known for its simplicity and accessibility. The region is a constitutional monarchy with the king as the supreme head.
29. King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck is Among the World’s Youngest Monarchs.
King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk is one of the world’s youngest monarchs who became the king of Bhutan in 2006, at the age of 28.
30. The Royal Wedding in 2011 Was Celebrated Nationwide.
The royal wedding of Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk was celebrated nationwide in 2011 at Punakha Dzong in Bhutan.
Bhutan’s Biodiversity and Wildlife
31.Bhutan is Home to the Rare Black-Necked Crane
Bhutan's geography facts include, the region is the home to the rare Black- Necked crane. The Phobjikha Valley is famous for the largest number of black-necked cranes which can be seen during the winter months.
32.Snow Leopards and Red Pandas Roam Bhutan’s Forests
Bhutan is located in the eastern Himalayan region which is one of the most bio-diverse regions of the world. The region is home to a variety of snow leopards and red pandas that roam in Bhutan’s forest.
33.Over 770 Bird Species Can Be Found Across Bhutan
Bhutan is home to a variety of both rare and endangered bird species. There are more than 770 bird species that can be found in Bhutan.
Surprising Bhutanese Customs
34. Bhutanese Funerals Include Elaborate Rituals
The funerals in Bhutan include elaborate rituals where monks perform both pre-Buddhist and Buddhist practices.
35.The Practice of Polyandry Still Exists in Some Parts of Bhutan
Nowadays polyandry is rare but there are some regions in Bhutan where the practices of this system still exist.
Miscellaneous Bhutanese Facts
36.All Buildings Follow a Traditional Architectural Style by Law
All the buildings in Bhutan have to follow a traditional architectural style by law called Dzongs.
37. Bhutan’s National Animal, the Takin, Has a Unique Mythology
Bhutan’s national animal takin has a unique mythology. According to a legend a Tibetan saint Drukpa Kunley, created this creature by attaching a goat’s head to a cow’s body.
38.Bhutan’s Currency, the Ngultrum, is Pegged to the Indian Rupee
Ngultrum the currency of Bhutan was pegged to the Indian rupee by (1:1) when the currency was first introduced in 1974.
39. The Country is the Last Stronghold of the Himalayan Glacier Zone
Bhutan is the last stronghold of the Himalayan glacial zone because of its strict rules to conserve the environment.
40.Bhutan’s Citizens Enjoy Free Healthcare and Education
The constitution of Bhutan allows free basic healthcare, including traditional and modern medicine. Also, the children in Bhutan can pursue free education up to tenth grade.
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